UPDATED 9/27 WITH CORRECTIONS: Yesterday, It's Only Money wrote about a state program that defers property taxes for seniors and disabled homeowners earning $38,500 or less a year. The Senior Citizens and Disabled Property Tax Deferral Programs are running out of money, but they will likely still be around Jan. 1, when you can apply again for relief.

There are other aid programs which might help someone in these times of need.

PHONE BILLS: The Oregon Public Utility Commission offers help for those struggling to pay their phone bill -- even
for cell phones. The Oregon Telephone Assistance Program provides up to $13.50 a month to 45,000 residents. The money comes
from a surcharge on phone bills.

Qualified residents must be receiving
benefits for low-income households, such as food
stamps, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families, Supplemental Security
Income, or certain state Medicaid or Medical programs. Call 1-800-848-4442 or visit www.rspf.org for more info.

APPLIANCES: The Oregon Department of Energy is still doling out rebates for new energy-efficient appliances. Initially it covered only heat pumps and furnaces. water heaters. In July, it also started rebating purchases of water heaters, refrigerators, dishwashers & clothes washers drier purchases. Rebates can range from $400 to $2,000, depending on appliance.

You must own your home and make less than 60 percent of median income. That's $1,860 a month as a single and $3,577 a month for a family of four, according to the guidelines. For more information, call 1‐800‐453‐5511 (option 2, selection 4).